Race has had a foundational impact on American society since its inception. This topic stirs deep pain and emotion for many for good reason. Race has been used to perpetrate some of the greatest human tragedies. While many want to avoid discussing race altogether, others are committed to making it the focus of their every thought and conversation.
Parents have an important role in deciding the fate of race relations in society at large, and that should not be overlooked. Parents can teach their children to develop healthy positive views of race that can have a lasting impact.
Here are four tips for parents:
1. Celebrate human diversity as a gift that improves all lives.
Nature demonstrates the beauty of diversity, without which human beings would cease to exist. Biodiversity allows life to thrive on this planet, and for that reason we should all be grateful. Diversity among human beings should be seen the same way. Pointing out that we are different should be presented as beautiful. Discussions about race should be a natural part of the human experience, as our differences are worth celebrating.
Parents should be purposeful in directing the narrative about race for their children instead of waiting for experiences, teachers, or peers to direct the views of their children. Therefore, parents should discuss diversity in nature and in people at early ages. Such an approach allows the deeper discussions of race to develop more naturally as children age. The focus should be on how diversity benefits us all. Diversity leads to innovation, richer........